16 Healthy Lunches That Aren't Salad

POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

If you're trying to take off weight, salads are bound to be part of your life, but they don't have to be an everyday occurrence. Sometimes you're craving something that's a little more substantial that's just as easy to pack up for work — that's where these 16 recipes come in handy! All of these dishes will help support your goals and keep you satisfied until dinner rolls around. Many can be made in advance and packaged up in appropriate portions to enjoy all week.

01
Burrito Bowl
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Burrito Bowl

Move over, Chipotle. This healthy burrito bowl recipe is half the calories, easy to make, and comes together in less than 10 minutes. A precooked chicken breast, fresh produce, and a few healthy staples are all you need for this nutrient-dense, low-calorie meal that will satisfy your Mexican fast-food cravings.

Calories: 350

02
Spicy Chicken Chili
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Spicy Chicken Chili

Substituting ground chicken for beef in this spicy chili recipe brings the same traditional flavors and textures of the classic you crave — just lightened up for your healthy diet. Make a pot on Sunday night, and pack up a hearty serving for lunch.

Calories: 324

03
Veggie and Hummus Sandwich
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Veggie and Hummus Sandwich

Prepare to build the best veggie sandwich ever. Hummus and avocado provide the fiber and protein you need to stay fueled, and layers of tasty veggies offer crunch, flavor, and important nutrients your body needs.

Calories: 336

04
Thai Peanut Soba Noodles
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Thai Peanut Soba Noodles

Make Thai-inspired soba noodles for dinner, and enjoy it for lunch the next day. The flavors develop with time, making this protein-rich and fiber-full cold dish perfect as leftovers.

Calories: 424

05
Sweet Potato, Chickpea, and Quinoa Burger
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Sweet Potato, Chickpea, and Quinoa Burger

This sweet potato, chickpea, and quinoa veggie burger is perfectly spiced and completely satisfying. At 202 calories per patty, you can add a 120-calorie whole-wheat bun and lettuce, tomato, and ketchup (34 calories) and still come in at well under 500 calories. Make multiple patties in advance to enjoy as a sandwich for the week.

Calories (with bun and fixings): 356

06
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Cauliflower Crust Pizza

This veggie-powered cauliflower pizza crust proves that you don't need flour to make an amazing pizza. Freshly grated cauliflower serves as the base for the creative and delicious crust that you can fold up just like traditional pizza. Cook it up the night before, and enjoy leftovers reheated.

Calories: 272

07
Chirashi Bowl
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Chirashi Bowl

This light, refreshing meal is perfect for lunch. Try this chirashi bowl made with fresh vegetables, brown rice, and sushi-grade tuna the next time you're hankering for takeout sushi.

Calories: 403

08
Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Roasted Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito

Roasted sweet potatoes swirling with tender black beans and corn, succulent red peppers, and juicy tomatoes wrapped in a warm whole-wheat tortilla make this one delicious and gratifying meal. It is under 500 calories and offers almost 15 grams each of fiber and protein.

Calories: 471

09
Chickpea and Kale Stew
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Chickpea and Kale Stew

If you tend to steer away from hot and spicy dishes, this vegan chickpea and kale stew will change your mind. Delicious straight from the pot, it's even better as leftovers for lunch.

Calories: 502

10
Lemon Tuna Pocket
POPSUGAR Photography | Michelle Bell

Lemon Tuna Pocket

Substituting lemon and olive oil for mayonnaise makes for a lighter, brighter tuna combination that's perfectly in line with the Mediterranean diet. Tuck yours into a pita for a protein-packed meal.

Calories: 323

11
Red, White, Bean, and Basil Frittata
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Red, White, Bean, and Basil Frittata

Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner, this high-protein frittata is bursting with flavor. Use whatever veggies you have in your crisper to give this recipe even more nutritional power.

Calories (for two slices): 378

12
Chickpea Curry
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Chickpea Curry

When you're craving Indian takeout, cook up this nutrient-dense chickpea and sweet potato curry instead. This vegan recipe is rich in protein, fiber, and flavor.

Calories: 397

13
Raw Gorilla Wraps
POPSUGAR Photography | Leta Shy

Raw Gorilla Wraps

When you need something quick, light, and satisfying, these fresh, raw, and fast wraps with a spiced walnut filling come together quick.

Calories (per wrap): 275

14
Red Pepper and Lentil Bake
POPSUGAR Photography | Leta Shy

Red Pepper and Lentil Bake

High in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, red bell peppers make a perfect accompaniment to protein-rich lentils in this low-calorie recipe. Even better news? You'll be surprised at how large an under-250-calorie portion of this cheesy red pepper and lentil bake really is.

Calories: 233

15
Indian-Spiced Curry
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Indian-Spiced Curry

A bowl of this Indian-spiced tofu and chard has the protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. Even better, the combination of turmeric and ginger gives this recipe both metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Refuel your body after a challenging midday yoga class with this meal.

Calories: 222

16
Raw Walnut Tacos
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Raw Walnut Tacos

Wrap up this spiced and smoky walnut meat into raw vegan tacos. They're so refreshing and surprisingly filling. Plus, it's a favorite recipe of Beyoncé!

Calories (per taco): 310